CLASSIC MOVIE SPOTLIGHT

The Keith & the Movies Valhalla Induction : “The Last of the Mohicans”

The Keith & the Movies Valhalla is a place of tribute for those movies that I hold in the highest regard. These are films that embody everything that is great about motion pictures. These are the best of the best – movies that I truly love and that stand above the rest. There are many great movies that won’t find their way into these sacred halls. But here you will find those films that I believe personify brilliance in filmmaking, storytelling, and entertainment. These glorious 5 star accomplishments are worthy of special recognition as the very best. Ok, enough of the high drama! In other words, these are my favorite movies of all time, ok?

There are a number of movies that have left indelible marks on me. In many instances I still remember the experience I had when I first saw them. Such is the case with Michael Mann’s “The Last of the Mohicans”. This version of James Fenimore Cooper’s classic novel blew me away during its initial theatrical release in 1992 and has held a special place with me since. Personally it’s a near flawless film teeming with gorgeous cinematography, fantastic action, and a strong measured romance set during a perfectly realized 1757 American frontier.

The film is also helped by some top notch acting especially from Daniel Day-Lewis as well as what may be my favorite movie score to ever grace a motion picture. The music from Trevor Jones is both beautiful and appropriate and it even found its way into my wedding. Some have downplayed “The Last of the Mohicans” choosing to dismiss it as “history lite”. Personally I adore the film for its rich cinematic story all the way to its great production. For me its place in the Valhalla was cemented from the start.

“The Last of the Mohicans” is the seventh inductee into the Keith & the Movies Valhalla. But there are more amazing movies to come in the near future so stay tuned. What are your thoughts on this Michael Mann new classic? Is it worth my high praise or is it an overrated picture? What about the performance of Daniel Day-Lewis? You now know my opinion. I’d love to hear yours. Please take time to share your comments below.

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24 thoughts on “The Keith & the Movies Valhalla Induction : “The Last of the Mohicans””

Good work on singling out this film for the Valhalla treatment! I’ve always thought it’s been underrated over the years. Personally it’s one of my favourite as well (and I’m not even a particularly big Daniel Day-Lewis fan); I just love its old school melodrama, big rousing score and wonderful momentum.

DDL learned to prime and load a musket on the run. Meticulous in every way, the battle sequences are disturbing. The music is a treasure and the love story hot without being lurid. A terrific choice for the Hall.

I remember watching some sort of battle scene from this film in middle school social studies class. I’ve been meaning to see the whole thing ever since but I haven’t gotten to it yet! I really like DDL so it seems inexcusable.

Love this movie! The final scene on the cliff is easily one of the most captivating movie sequences ever – that powerful music, the beautiful images that play without words, and just how tragic and heroic it is! Gives me chills.

Great choice! There’s one fight (I won’t mention which one, so as not to spoil it for those that haven’t watched it) which totally subverts what you think is going to happen. But I think you probably have an idea which one I’m talking about, keith.